PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of perioperat
ive biofeedback training on postoperative continence in patients with
rectal prolapse. METHODS: Thirty-six consecutive patients were operate
d on between 1987 and 1993. Twenty-nine could be traced for reexaminat
ion. Four were excluded because of a recurring prolapse. Anal manometr
y, assessment of rectoanal sensation, and surface electromyography wer
e performed during the reexamination. From 1987 to 1991, no perioperat
ive biofeedback training was given (Group 1, n = 14). Since the beginn
ing of 1992, incontinent patients were given biofeedback training (Gro
up 2, n = II). RESULTS: Continence scores improved in both study group
s. Both study groups had equally low resting pressures compared with G
roup 3 (controls) (30.6 +/- 14.9 vs. 53.0 +/- 11.9 mmHg; P < 0.001). A
nal resting pressure correlated with postoperative continence score, w
hereas contractile pressures did not (1 = -0.5, P < 0.05, and I = -0.3
, P = not significant, respectively). CONCLUSION: Biofeedback therapy
can improve the function of external sphincter; however, the: most imp
ortant reason for postoperative incontinence in rectal prolapse patien
ts is low resting pressure that cannot be corrected by biofeedback the
rapy.